Research assistant (m, f, d) for the Department of Systems Toxicology, Bioimaging Group

The Forschungsgesellschaft für Arbeitsphysiologie und Arbeitsschutz e.V. is an institutionally funded research organization supported by the German Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, and it is the sponsoring institution of the Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors at TU Dortmund (IfADo). IfADo investigates the risks and potentials of modern work using interdisciplinary approaches, combining the disciplines of ergonomics, immunology, toxicology, psychology, and neuroscience.

In the Department of Systems Toxicology, Bioimaging Group, we are seeking, at the earliest possible date,

a research assistant (Ph.D. candidate) (m, f, d) (65 %) with the opportunity to pursue a Ph.D.

The position is initially limited to three years, with the possibility of a one-year extension.

The position involves scientific collaboration on a project focused on the development and application of Raman spectroscopy for the non-invasive diagnosis and characterization of biological fluids (e.g., blood, saliva, urine) and tissue samples in the context of gastrointestinal diseases of metabolic, inflammatory-autoimmune, and toxicological etiology.

Your Tasks:

• Development and optimization of Raman spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging protocols for biological samples
• Acquisition and processing of large-scale Raman spectral and spatial datasets
• Advanced quantitative computer-aided analysis of complex spectral and imaging data
• Implementation of image processing techniques (e.g., noise reduction, background correction, segmentation, feature extraction)
• Development of Python-based workflows for automated data analysis, visualization, and pipeline integration (using libraries such as NumPy, SciPy, scikit-learn, OpenCV, PyTorch, or TensorFlow)
• Application of multivariate statistics, machine learning (e.g., PCA, PLS-DA, SVM, random forests), and deep learning for diagnostic pattern recognition
• Conducting cell culture experiments and in vitro assays (e.g., cell viability, oxidative stress, inflammatory markers)
• Performing standardized biochemical analysis techniques (e.g., ELISA, Western blotting, protein quantification, enzyme activity assays)
• Optional: Participation in mouse model studies (e.g., colitis models, tissue collection, histology)—experience with animal models is considered a major advantage

Your qualification:

• Master’s degree in physics, chemistry, biophysics, medical technology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field
• Experience with cell culture techniques and in vitro experiments
• Practical experience with standardized biochemical analytical methods (e.g., ELISA, Western blot, protein assays)
• Strong interest in quantitative computer analysis and data science
• Experience in image processing and Python programming (including data analysis, automation, and visualization)
• Experience with Raman spectroscopy, chemometrics, or biomedical applications
• Experience with mouse models (e.g., in vivo studies, tissue sampling, histology)
• Fluency in both English and German (written and spoken)
• Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a structured, independent work ethic

We offer:

• A part-time position (65%) currently 25.89 working hours per week
• Remuneration according to TV-L EG 13 (gross € 3,093.65 – € 4,397.13 per month, depending on individual qualifications)
• All benefits associated with public service employment, e.g. an annual bonus and the payment of capital-forming benefits
• Flexible working hours and support to help you balance family and professional responsibilities
• Access to state-of-the-art instrumentation
• A modern, interdisciplinary research environment
• Opportunities for continuing education in science
• Active participation in national and international conferences
• Integration into an international and interdisciplinary research environment

IfADo is committed to diversity. We benefit from the diverse expertise, perspectives, and personalities of our employees and welcome applications from qualified candidates regardless of age, gender or gender identity, ethnic or cultural background, religion or belief, sexual orientation or identity, or disability.

Applicants with severe disabilities will be given special consideration if equally qualified.

We actively support the compatibility of work and family life and place great value on an equal and inclusive culture of collaboration.

General information about the research centre can be found at .

Have we aroused your interest?

Please submit your complete application materials (resume, CV, proof of academic degrees and employment references, a summary of your master’s thesis (maximum 1.5–2 pages), and contact information for two references) including the reference code "FB Toxi 05/26", until the 22.09.2026 preferably by mail to bewerbung@ifado.de.

(*Application documents will be destroyed in compliance with data protection regulations after the retention period has expired.)